KUL

Where to find the best sourdough bread in Kuala Lumpur

April 19, 2021 by Dawn Wong

Sourdough is taking Kuala Lumpur by storm, with a huge proliferation of bakeries serving both the classic and creative renditions of this yeasty delight. Timeless and tasty, the love for bread is a universal one. From independent artisanal bakers, to reputable establishments, everyone is jumping on the bread bandwagon, delivering their creations by the loaves to consumers who search endlessly to find the newest sanctuary of sourdough. In this competitive market, it is easy for consumers to feel overwhelmed by the multitude of choices on offer. We bring you six places serving sourdough bread, all unequivocally delicious in their own ways.

1. Table and Apron

The sourdough at Table & Apron, a restaurant in the Petaling Jaya neighbourhood of Damansara Kim is so popular that its owners have opened a bakery just next door to sell its rustic breads. Universal Bakehouse operates out of a former laundromat, repainted by an artist in his seventies, selling sourdough, scones and open-faced sandwiches. Get their basic set of two country sourdough slices with French butter and sea salt (RM6). The bread is deeply satisfying, with its crispy crust and a yielding chew. Diners can opt to add on a variety of accompaniments like soft-boiled kampung eggs or hummus. The bread menu changes daily, with other sourdough varieties like walnuts and olives, honey oats, green apple and many more on offer. Customers can watch the entire bread-making process through a wide-open window.

Address: No. 21, Jalan 20/11, Damansara Kim, Petaling Jaya

2. Tommy Le Baker

Located at the vibrant Zhongshan Building in Kampung Attap, Tommy Le Baker has become almost an institution in it’s own right. The snaking queues are a testament to their resounding popularity. Here, you will find no trendy pastries or Insta-worthy cute cupcakes. Their main (and only draw) is sourdough bread in all it’s crusty glory.

Baker Tommy Lee is the unrivalled master of sourdough, constantly tweaking his recipe as he experiments with flour, water and salt. The sourdough is available in loaves to take home (RM10 per loaf) or your can order the sandwiches, available in a variety of luscious fillings like smoked salon, egg mayo and the perennial favourite – butter and brown sugar (RM10). Though fleeting food fads may be baked into our culinary culture, Tommy Le Baker proves that simplicity never grows old.

Address: 82, Jalan Rotan, Kampung Attap, Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia, 50460

3. Huckleberry Food & Fare

Admire master baker Christophe Gros working hard at his craft with an impressive 120-square-foot Bongard Omega2 artisanal oven at Huckleberry Food & Fare as he endeavours to deliver the freshest loaves of sourdough bread to eager and hungry customers. The spacious shop has a rustic and industrial-chic vibe with a touch of modernity. The impressive cake and bread counter is worth a picture or two. The cakes are delicious, but the breads? Even better. All of the breads are made with sourdough starters following the traditional method of baking. The loaves are left to rise longer than usual, resulting in a lighter texture with stronger flavours. Their Miche Sourdough range is not to be missed. Other scrumptious bread options include the classic multigrain, organic meteil, farmer’s bread, and buttery croissants that flake and melt seamlessly in the mouth. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all available, but better to come during off-peak hours to beat the surging crowds.

Plaza Damansara, 2G & 4G, Jalan Medan Setia 2, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

4. Yin’s Sourdough Bakery

This Penang-born bakery in Damansara Uptown, which had its humble beginnings selling only loaves of sourdough has now expanded its culinary repertoire beyond yeast, offering a menu full of healthy smoothies and hearty dishes like cauliflower rice and quinoa.

As its name suggests, Yin’s Sourdough is the go-to locale to satiate your sourdough cravings at anytime of the day. The bread is made daily in-house in their fermentation lab, so you will always get the freshest slices delivered straight to your table. If you prefer to pair your sourdough with some savouries, opt for the Cured Salmon Sandwich (RM22), a dish of crusty toast generously crowned with smoked salmon and mashed avocado. If you can’t get enough of their additive bread, takeaway options are available. Our two top picks are the Whole Wheat Sourdough (RM7.80) and Three Seed Sourdough (RM10), preservative-free loaves of goodness that pair well with anything.

41G Uptown, No. 37 Jalan SS21/37, Damansara Utama, 47400 Petaling Jaya

5. Universal Bakehouse

It’s hard to miss the striking storefront of this quaint bakery in Damansara Kim; the retro signboard, reminiscent of old storefronts you’ll find in Malaysia, is designed by local creative Fictionist. But we digress. Pop in and treat yourselves to its freshly baked loaves like the Assorted Sourdough, which comprises two fluffy slices of the loaf, and served with French butter and sea salt or – if you’re feeling adventurous – either gula melaka or butter and ikura roe.

6. Bake Plan

For heavenly baked goods by a talented team, a visit to this shop is in order. Located in the heart of the bustling SS2 area, Bake Plan entices customers daily with the fragrance of freshly baked goods that waft invitingly across the street. Follow the irresistible smell and step into a frabjous wonderland of preservative-free crusty loaves, fluffy danishes, delightful croissants and dazzling cakes. Heavily influenced by Japanese-style bakeries, they specially import Japanese flour for their breads, to give them a better taste and texture. Regulars love the Earl Grey Cream Cheese (RM 6.90), a crisp and flaky pastry, with a generous filling of sweet cream. The pièce de résistance however, is their signature Classic Sourdough (RM10). The pliable and chewy texture of this sugar-free bread is a winning combination.

Jalan SS2/61, Petaling Jaya

This article was originally published in February 2020.

Get your lockdown reads from these independent bookstores in the Klang Valley

October 23, 2020 by Sarah Khan

With the current CMCO mandating two additional weeks of #stayhome, there’s no better time than the present to catch up on your reading. After all, with travel and movement restrictions in place, what better way to expand your mind and traverse new worlds than through the pages of a book? Thankfully, Kuala Lumpur is not short of incredible bookstores, and its independent, locally owned ones are especially worth a visit and support in these trying times. Swing by to pick up your lockdown reads or order them online – some of these spots are even offering exclusive promos on book purchases to tide you through the CMCO. Read on to discover our top picks of independent bookstores in the Klang Valley.

1. BookXcess

In the last year, bookstore chain BookXcess has shifted its focus from selling remaindered books to creating beautiful, one-of-a-kind stores. The new outlet on the basement level of Sunsuria Forum in Shah Alam has garnered the attention of bibliophiles from Kuala Lumpur and across Malaysia. It features several intimate hole-in-the-bookshelf reading nooks, Instagrammable spots and an adorable cafe.

With a collection of over 500,000 books spanning all genres, there will always be something to suit your fancy. Picture worthy spots include the gargantuan curved bookshelf at the entrance of the store for a #shelfie and the mini-maze in the children’s section, where you can roam and unleash your inner child. Not sure what books to grab? Get inspired by its new Stay at Home Series, a curated pick of recommended reads for these times.

SB-1, Sunsuria Forum, 1 Jalan Setia Dagang, Shah Alam

2. Lit Books

Literary lovers turn to Lit Books for their thoughtful selection of books, meticulously handpicked by the owners. Husband-and-wife team Min Hun Fong and Elaine Lau were former journalists who have transformed their love for prose into a sanctuary for book lovers. While the store is remaining close throughout the CMCO, you can still shop the collection online – they’re even running a 10% off sitewide discount from now till 27 October.

More than just a bookstore, Lit Books offers venue space for events and book club meetups. Coffee lovers will revel in the in-house Nespresso bar, where you’d be spoilt for choice for a cup of joe, while visitors will delight at the literary-themed trinkets such as tote bags and stationery cases available in-store.

Golf & Country Resort, 7410 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia

3. Silverfish Books

Since it first opened in 1999, Silverfish Books has gained a reputation for its selection of several rare titles, a well-curated mix of literary classics as well as an offbeat lineup of local books. Silverfish is also one of the leading publishers of Malaysian writing in English, and they regularly hold discussions for writers to share all about their respective works. A big supporter of the local literary scene, owner Raman Krishnan also publishes up-and-coming writers under the Silverfish Books brand and successfully produced some of the best local works in Malaysia.

20-2F, Bangsar Village 2

4. Junk Bookstore

There is no junk to be found here; only rare literary gems, some of which are first edition or have gone out of print. Located along Jalan Tun H S Lee, Junk Bookstore is a nondescript shop that might easily be missed by bypassers. But for those who do venture in, they will be treated to a treasure trove of secondhand books, jammed packed in the three-storey bookstore that has been in operation since 1990. Be sure to set aside a few hours to slowly browse through the entire collection to discover some intriguing titles.

In view of the current CMCO, please adhere to the new standard operating procedures (SOPs) while dining in. Do check each establishment’s official websites for opening hours and requirements before visiting.

This upcoming skyscraper in KL will be the world’s 2nd tallest building

September 18, 2020 by Sarah Khan

A new skyscraper on the KL skyline will officially be Malaysia’s tallest building – and the world’s second-highest, right after the Burj Khalifa. At 635-metres high, the Merdeka 118 will also take the crown as the tallest skyscraper in Malaysia, currently held by the Exchange 106 in the Tun Razak Exchange (TRX) financial district.

Owned and developed by Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB), this mega tower is located between Stadium Merdeka and Stadium Negara, within the vicinity to the city’s historical landmarks. To date, over 110 floors have been built. Although construction halted during the MCO, it’s still set to open its doors in 2021, and will no doubt prove to be the new sleek urban hotspot in the metropolis.

Already counting down to its opening? Here are a few facts about the Merdeka 118 to know:

1. Its design is inspired by an important moment in Malaysia’s history

The building’s distinctive silhouette is inspired by an iconic moment in Malaysian history, when Tunku Abdul Rahman, the first prime minister of Malaysia, raised his hands and chanted “Merdeka!” on 31 August 1957. The diamond-shaped base is also designed to resemble the Malay songket (a traditional Malay textile).

2. It will house office spaces, restaurants, a sky lobby and a hotel

Aptly called Merdeka 118, the 118-storey building will house 83-storeys of office spaces, a shopping mall, sky-dining restaurants, Park Hyatt Hotel, and luxury amenities like the sky lobby and VIP lounge on its upper floors.

3. It’s also home to Asia’s tallest observation deck

The Merdeka 118 will also boast Asia’s tallest observation deck, offering unparalleled panoramas of the KL skyline. To get to the deck, visitors will have to use the glass-panelled elevator – which is, incidentally, also the tallest glass-panelled elevator in the world.

Where to eat in The Republik, KL’s latest dining destination

July 23, 2020 by Going Places

The Republik is arguably KL’s trendiest new dining destination. This elegant, recently-renovated colonial-style building in Damansara Heights houses two storeys of eateries, all featuring fresh dining concepts courtesy of Malaysia’s best and brightest restauranteurs and culinary stars. From a mod-Indian restaurant to a one-of-a-kind coffee cocktail bar, here are our top picks of places to dine in the next time you’re in The Republik.

1. Frangipaani

With its beautiful well-lit space and leafy, airy interiors, dining at Frangipaani is an all-round stellar experience. This modern South Asian restaurant serves drool-worthy Indian classics like a crab rasam, lamb rogan josh, butter chicken and malai kofta, to name a few. Its cocktail menu also measures up to the mains and truly packs a punch. Try the Indian Passion, a vodka and passionfruit puree concoction mixed with a dash of cumin mix and green chillies for an extra flavour kick.

The Republik, Lot No.M.03, Mezzanine Floor, Jalan Medan Setia 1, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

2. Krung Thep

Krung Thep specialises in contemporary Thai dining that showcases Thailand’s famous culinary regions: Central, Northern, Southern and Isan. Soak up the flavours in a refined setting by restaurant veterans and Isan-born Chef Piyanat Yowabut. Must-try dishes include a Southern Thai yellow prawn curry, tom yam talay and of course, the pad thai goong.

G05, Ground Floor, Republik, 1, Jalan Medan Setia 1, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

3. Nam

Nam is a newly opened French-Vietnamese establishment that wins big with its crispy roast duck. Helmed by the same team behind the likes of Kenny Hill Bakers and Nourish, it also serves classics like Vietnamese pho, made with cuts of grass-fed Australian beef. Other menu offerings include a savoury beef ribs curry served with baguette, coconut crêpes and soft rice paper rolls.

G.02-02, Bangunan Epicure, Republik Damansara Heights, 1, Jalan Medan Setia 1, Damansara, Malaysia

4. Happy Stan

Named for the travel writer Stanton Delaplane who introduced Irish coffee to the United States, Happy Stan caters to both barflies and coffee fans. It’s co-founded by the coffee specialists behind VCR, so you can expect only quality brews here. Power up with one of their strong cuppas or unwind with a signature coffee cocktail. Must-tries include the Cold Irish Coffee, a decadent blend of cold filtered coffee, single malt whiskey, sweetened with honey and muscavado and served with a dollop of double cream. Happy Stan also has a menu of non-alcoholic cocktails.

M.06, 1, Jalan Medan Setia 1, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Happy Stan coffee bar KL — Photo: Happy Stan

5. Blonde

The latest venture from family-owned restaurant group Serai, Blonde is a mod-Malaysian eatery serving up an international menu of brunch and bistro classics with an unmistakable local twist. On its brunch menu, a Dutch-style pancakes served with plump homegrown figs from Shah Alam proves to be a crowd favourite, while mains like the Asian Platter, a spread of golden fried chicken spiked with curry leaves, piquant assam tiger prawns and smoky grilled squid, promises the heartiest of feasts.

G.03A, Republik Damansara Heights, Jalan Medan Setia 1, Bukit Damansara, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

KL’s Kwai Chai Hong is a time capsule of Chinatown’s old-world charm

July 13, 2020 by Emma Chong Johnston

In between Petaling Street’s flower shops, open-air markets and generations-old food stalls lies Kwai Chai Hong at Lorong Panggung, a lovingly restored laneway of prewar shophouses. With murals that nod to its vice-ridden past, hidden alleys and local eateries, it’s one of KL’s best-kept secrets and a peek into what was before in Chinatown.

In 2018, a group of five local entrepreneurs discovered the neglected alleyway and took its restoration upon themselves, investing over RM1.5 million of their own money to transform it into a tourist destination and time capsule of Petaling Street’s old-world appeal. Titled Project Kwai Chai Hong, the restoration spans 10 shophouses – six of which are on Jalan Petaling, another four along Lorong Panggung – as well as a laneway sandwiched between the two roads.

“The charm of this place and the nostalgic memory inspired us,” says Zeen Chang, managing partner of Bai Chuan Management, the company the five formed to tackle this project. “As we began work to mend this once-neglected laneway, we fell more and more in love with it. We want to bring people back to KL Chinatown – bring back the glory days of Chee Cheong Kai (the local nickname for Petaling Street, meaning “Starch Factory Street” in Cantonese) and make the place lively once again.”

The name “Kwai Chai Hong”, which translates to “little ghost lane” is said to be derived from the kids who used to play in the back lanes in its bygone days. Today, you’ll find trendy bars, old-school eateries serving kopitiam fare and Instagram-worthy street art to delight all your senses. Spy the 6 murals designed by local artists each accompanied by a QR code which, when scanned, plays an interactive clip or soundtrack.

How to get here: Kwai Chai Hong is located a few minutes away from Pasar Seni MRT and LRT stations. From the station, head to Jalan Panggung. The heritage lane is located behind the shophouses; just keep your eyes peeled for the entrance arch that reads “Kwai Chai Hong”.

This story originally appeared in the March 2020 issue of Going Places magazine.

Seven of Kuala Lumpur’s standout specialty coffee shops

June 24, 2020 by Going Places

Whether it’s an iced latte, double espresso shot or filter brew, many of us need our daily cup(s) of coffee in order to survive and thrive. Besides the standard kopi that’s favoured by many throughout Malaysia’s capital city, there exists a burgeoning specialty coffee movement that has gained a legion of fans in the city. Using a range of different brewing contraptions with an emphasis on the unique provenance and growing methods of the various coffee beans, these specialty coffee shops aim to provide a different – and perhaps more considered – experience for local drinkers. Here are seven of them that’s worth checking out.

1. VCR

With a location within the city centre and an outpost in the trendy Bangsar district, VCR is one of Kuala Lumpur’s most popular specialty coffee shops. The café’s all-black exterior – which applies both locations – stands out amid the surrounding buildings, while inside you’ll find a team of baristas doling out delicious brews made with their in-house roasted beans. We recommend going for the cold brew or an espresso tonic or try their house-made kombucha if you’re after something tart and refreshing.

Open for daily for takeout and delivery from 8am to 5.30pm. More information on their Instagram.

2. Cream

The café outpost of local coffee roaster The Roast Things, Cream puts their coffee beans front and centre of the customer experience. You can sample brews – be it a filter coffee, iced latte or affogato – made using various blends and single-origin offerings from the likes of Colombia, Kenya, Costa Rica and Honduras, among other key coffee-growing regions. Want to learn more about a specific roast? Their team of expert baristas would be more than happy to strike up a conversation. Cream also lets you purchase its coffee beans via its roastery available online.

Cream is temporarily closed for takeout. You can still purchase your coffee beans from its roastery available on its web store.

Cream KL — Have your pick of single-origin coffees grown from Colombia, Kenya, Costa Rica and Honduras (Photo: Cream)

3. Feeka Coffee Roasters (closed until further notice)

Given that their name is a play on the Swedish word “fika” – the practice of taking a break to share a beverage and a snack with friends – it’s no surprise that chill vibes and a friendly ambience reign supreme here at Feeka. Founded in 2013, the Bukit Bintang operation is considered as one of the scene’s pioneers. Why not try the cold brew, cappuccino or ristretto made with their seasonal house blend? You can also pair your coffee with a donut from local operation Donut Plan.

Feeka KL — Come for the coffee; stay for the food (Photo: Feeka)

Feeka is a popular KL haunt for coffee lovers (Photo: Feeka Coffee Roasters)

4. Merchant’s Lane (temporarily closed until 26 January)

This Petaling Street coffee shop is a Chinatown gem, with its high ceilings, vintage and rattan furniture and rustic vibe proving a hit among all. You can grab a seat in the bright and airy main area, or head to an adjoining section that boasts plenty of potted and hanging plants for a more nature-centric ambience. Pair an espresso-based beverage with food options including a Nasi Lemak Pancake or the cheekily named Better Than Sex: pandan roti jala (Malaysian crepes) with melted cheese, kaya toast-flavoured ice cream and gula melaka sauce.

The bright and rustic decor is bound to a ‘gram hit (Photo: Merchant’s Lane)

Latte at Merchant's Lane — A latte at Merchant’s Lane (Photo: Merchant’s Lane)

Nasi Lemak Pancake, Merchant's Lane — Merchant’s Lane famous Nasi Lemak Pancake (Photo: Merchant’s Lane)

Merchant's Lane KL — Cafe’s indoor dining area (Photo: Merchant’s Lane)

5. Seraph Awaken (closed and rebranding as Yellow Hammer in March)

Conceived as a way for people to connect over coffee, Klang’s Seraph Awaken is a roaster and cafe with retro, old-school vibes mismatched chairs, marble tables, patterned square tiles and a fuss-free atmosphere are reminiscent of a coffee shop from yesteryear. The brews, however, are firmly of the present, with single-origin varieties and custom blends made from coffee beans they roast themselves. There’s even a single-origin chocolate drink that’s worth a try.

Seraph Awakan — Seraph Awaken’s interiors are reminiscent of an old-school kopitiam (Photo: Seraph Awaken)

6. Transparent Coffee

Located in Bangsar, Transparent Coffee – which transforms into Coley Cocktail Bar at night – is one of the newer players on the scene, but has quickly developed a following for its excellent brews made with beans that owner Joey Mah sources directly from producers. Make your way through the lush plant-framed entrance and order yourself a filter brew of whatever single-origin variety they’re serving that day.

Open daily for delivery and takeaway from 8am to 4.30pm.

7. Pulp

Pulp, the Malaysian flagship outlet of Singaporean coffee roaster PPP (formerly known as Papa Palheta) can be found at creative space Art Printing Works in Bangsar. It’s a spacious café, roastery, showroom and workshop space rolled into one – heaven on earth for coffee geeks – and where quality shots using in-house roasted beans are pulled using a Synesso espresso machine. We recommend trying a refreshing and light cascara cold brew or decadent iced mint chocolate.

Open daily from 8am to 8pm for takeout and delivery.

Pulp KL — This spacious cafe doles out a mean cold brew (Photo: Pulp)

Some of the images featured in this article were taken pre-pandemic.

Do check each establishment’s official websites for opening hours and requirements before visiting. Please adhere to the new standard operating procedures (SOPs) while dining in.

10 bakeries in KL delivering sourdough, cakes and treats to your home

June 15, 2020 by Hannah Ooi

When teatime cravings hit but heading out for scones and sourdough isn’t as straightforward as it used to be, get your fix sent to your doorstep instead. The recent MCO prompted many of Kuala Lumpur’s best bakeries to pivot to home delivery, and given birth to Instagram bread retail that you can still enjoy even as we emerge from lockdown. From home-based businesses to independent stores, we’ve rounded up 10 bakeries in KL offering home delivery of freshly baked cakes, breads and everything in between.

1. Whipped Cakes

Located in Desa Sri Hartamas, Whipped Cakes has a wide range of full-sized cakes available for same-day and next-day home deliveries. For a bite-sized dessert, try the decadent chocolate squares (from RM131) — moist dark–chocolate cake squares lathered in a rich and glossy ganache. Delivery fees depend on your location (up to RM40), and you can even request for a one-hour delivery window.

Chocolate squares by Whipped Cakes — Photo: Whipped Cakes

2. Little Collins

Have cakes and even savoury menu items delivered to your home within an hour from Little Collins, a family-owned cake shop and café at Solaris Mont Kiara. A regular-sized cake might be too much for a family of four to finish, so check out Little Collins’ mini 5-inch cakes available for your stay-home party. Prices start at RM55, with delivery fees for areas ranging from Mont Kiara to KL City Centre starting at RM12.

Little Collins KL Bakery home delivery — Photo: Little Collins

3. Selaseh Dua

Baker Cik Kiah’s delicious and uniquely flavoured cupcakes are all the rage on Instagram, where she posts photos of her bakes and accepts orders through her page @selasehdua. Her fun cupcakes (think ondeh–ondeh and sago gula melaka flavours) start at RM20 for a box of four — watch her Instagram page for the constantly changing menu. Delivery rates depend on the location of your home to the shop in Batu Caves; contact Cik Kiah on Whatsapp for more details.

Cinnamon rolls by Selaseh Dua bakery — Photo: @selasehdua

4. BakedKL

BakedKL specialises in healthy desserts for a variety of dietary preferences, including gluten- and wheat-free treats as well as vegan options. Try the large peanut-butter cookies rolled in coconut sugar (140g for RM18) that come in a resealable pouch. Or get the vegan fudge brownies (set of 12 for RM70) and enjoy a side of free vegan edible cookie dough as part of a current online promotion. Order before 1pm for same-day delivery and if you drop your email address, you’ll also receive 50% off your delivery fee within Klang Valley (minimum order RM100).

Baked KL bakery home delivery — Photo: Baked KL

5. PULP

Ramadan may be over, but you can still send your loved ones a care pack filled with a loaf of butter cake, dates and cold brew (RM170) from Bangsar-based coffee brewery Pulp. Other care packages include the aptly named WFH Care Pack (RM70), which consists of a seven–inch butter cake loaf and either 125g of whole coffee beans or a box of 10 coffee pods by Papa Pahleta. The carefully crafted packs and online delivery service are the result of the company’s efforts to redeploy its delivery vans during the Movement Control Order (MCO) in Malaysia – welcome news to those hoping to get their favourite Pulp brews at home.

6. DougHappy

Previously a beloved sight in Taman Desa, the DougHappy bread truck used to sell fresh bakes around the neighbourhood. With the announcement of the MCO, the company came up with the idea of creating premix flour packages for families to bake at home and consume over a longer period. Pick up a low-calorie butter cake premix pack (starting from 200g for RM6), but if you’re craving fresh loaves, DougHappy is still taking orders through Whatsapp, with delivery on Mondays and Thursdays.

Doughappy KL bakery home delivery — Photo: DougHappy

7. Dough & Dolce

Dough & Dolce is a small bakery based in Taman Tun Dr Ismail which rolls out freshly baked bread (as well as pastries) and home delivery via online order service Beepit all week except on Tuesdays. Order early to grab a loaf of country wholemeal sourdough (RM24) that sells out quickly, or the buttermilk cranberry scones with homemade clotted cream and jam (RM9). Delivery fees start at RM7 if you’re ordering from KL City Centre.

Dough & Dolce KL bakery home delivery — Photo: Dough & Dolce

8. Baker’s Hood Boulangerie

This artisanal bakery has a variety of sourdough loaves (starting from RM10) available for delivery every Tuesday and Thursday. The bakes use locally produced MFM Diamond wheat flour so you’ll be supporting local with every purchase. Pre-order through Instagram or Whatsapp; find more details on the Instagram page. There’s a flat fee of RM6 for deliveries within the Taman Tun Dr Ismail area, and other rates will be calculated according to distance.

9. Junandus

Junandus, a cake shop at Kuchai Business Park, prides itself on its generations-old recipes and high-quality ingredients from around the world. Its menu is also completely alcohol- and lard-free. Try the best–selling salted caramel almond crepe cake (RM119), buttery and decadent Red Velvet Cake or go all out with a themed treat like the Avengers Cake for RM209. Junandus has a helpful list of home-delivery zones in KL— free shipping is available for orders over RM149, and you can subscribe over Facebook Messenger for a one-time RM5 discount voucher.

Junandus KL red velvet cake delivery — Photo: Junandus

10. Bread & Treats

You can order healthy loaves directly from this new home baker on the block through its Instagram page, @breadntreats. The selection of organic, low-gluten options includes oat porridge sourdough, multigrain sourdough and even chocolate sourdough. Prices start at RM17, and daily delivery within Klang Valley is available with a minimum order of two loaves or an order of RM30 and above.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-4MRX_JkOc/

These cool new restaurants in KL are now open for dine-ins

June 11, 2020 by Going Places

Takeouts are great, but let’s face it: nothing beats the atmosphere of dining in at a trendy restaurant. With the RMCO now in effect, homebound foodies can now look forward to dining at the city’s coolest new culinary spots. For this reason, we’ve rounded up Kuala Lumpur’s hottest new establishments whose delicious and inventive dishes are well worth the trip.

1. Blonde

Blonde, the latest venture by family-run restaurant group Serai, is an elegant, light-filled space, taking pride of place in the newly refreshed retail and restaurant hub of The Republik. Walk through Art Deco arches to find dark woods, rattan finishes and metallic touches – like the other restaurants before it, the menu is just as stylish as the interiors. This modern Malaysian eatery serves up an international menu of brunch and bistro classics with a nod to Asian flavours and Malaysian influences, created by group managing director and head chef Najib Hamid. Try the hearty smoked salmon and scrambled egg brunch, which comes dusted with a seaweed crisp and ikura roe, or the Dutch-style pancakes which are served alongside plump figs grown by Shah Alam’s own Mutiara figs.

G.03A, Republik, Jalan Medan Setia 1, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur

Blonde by Serai Group — Photo: Serai Group

2. Apollo Dining

Go for the ’gram, stay for the fresh Malaysian mash-ups. Bangsar’s newest fusion restaurant, Apollo Dining, makes fantastic use of a narrow shoplot tucked between trendy coffee shops. The bare concrete and rammed-earth interiors are lit by an expansive skylight, highlighting a menu that uses local produce and flavours in surprising new ways. Must-tries: the pan-roasted scallops to start, a tiger prawn linguini for your main and then crispy, slightly funky cempedak nian gao (glutinous rice cake flavoured with a relative of jackfruit) fritters to end.

28, Jalan Kemuja, Bangsar, 59000, Kuala Lumpur

Pan-roasted scallops, Apollo Dining's dine-in menu — Photo: Apollo Dining

3. Starving Hub

Helmed by Chef Wong, previously from fine-dining Cantonese establishment Noble House, a trip to Starving Hub in Sri Petaling promises a meal that delights all your senses. While it continues in the wide vein of Asian cuisine, what sets it apart is its inventive execution of traditional dishes. Case in point: fried dumplings fashioned as roses rising out of a small garden pot (pictured below). You’ll also find the likes of foie gras and black caviar – which, though unconventional on an Asian menu, still feels cohesive with the rest of the dishes.

75-1, Jalan Radin Tengah, Sri Petaling, 57000 Kuala Lumpur

4. The Hungry Tapir

Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown district has been revived as a bustling, Instagram-worthy hub filled with hip eateries and bars that draw both young and old alike. Plant-based restaurant The Hungry Tapir is the newest kid on the block, sporting a striking bold pink patio adorned with tropical motifs and an industrial-style interior with exposed brick walls, light beams and plenty of fun wall art. This vegan spot, which comes with a full-service bar, features tasty fusion nosh for your picking. Be sure to try the masak lemak, which features a coconut and lemongrass fettuccine served with zucchini and tomatoes, and the tender satay skewers made from hedgehog mushrooms. They’ve also recently launched a new high-tea menu on Sundays, which entails a delightful assortment of scones, Malay kuih, cookies, tempeh sandwiches and even teh tarik – all powered by plants, of course.

135, Jalan Petaling, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur

5. Stammtisch KL

Stammtisch KL is the perfect spot if you’re dining in with a large crowd. Serving up hearty portions of authentic German fare, which you can chase down with a wonderful selection of beers, tasty and tender meats make up a large portion of their menu. Rethink everything you thought you knew about the classic meatloaf with the restaurant’s homemade Hackbratenor consider tackling the Ensemble Platter with your entourage. This huge spread comes with a whopping 10 items, from crispy pork knuckles and three types of juicy sausages to spaetzle, a unique type of German pasta.

18-G, Jalan Medan Setia 2, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur

6. Chipta 11A

Dining at Chipta 11A is a deceptively casual affair. The restaurant follows the Omakase style, in which no two meals are alike, and the day’s menu depends on the selection of produce and chef Jack Weldie’s mood. Seated at the long communal table, you could be served yams with rice pops, cured amberjack sushi, heirloom tomatoes and mackerel with a roselle vinaigrette, or super-fresh sashimi. The only constant is flavour.

11a, Jalan 20/16, Sea Park, 46300 Petaling Jaya

7. Skydome Hotpot

Located on the rooftop of Wisma Trax on Jalan Chow Sow Lin, Skydome Hotpot takes the concept of elevating its food quite literally. As you cook a variety of ingredients in one of their three soup bases – coconut chicken, mushroom or spicy mala – you’ll get to watch the night sky through the expansive glass skydome. There are even private domes catering to different dinner sizes, including a VIP one that’s perfect for those occasions when you want to pull out all the stops.

No.1, Jalan Lima, Chan Sow Lin, 55200 Kuala Lumpur

Hero image by Blonde KL, Serai Group

Taiwan’s famous 24-hour bookstore is set to open its doors in Malaysia

June 1, 2020 by Sarah Khan

Good news, book lovers: Eslite, arguably Taiwan’s most famous bookstore, will soon be setting up shop in Kuala Lumpur for the first time.

Although an exact launch date has not been confirmed, its opening is said to be scheduled for next year. According to Oriental Daily News, the new bookstore – estimated to span up to a sprawling 6,600 square metres in retail space – will be located in downtown Kuala Lumpur.

The bookstore’s debut in Malaysia also marks its first foray into Southeast Asia. At present, it has over 40 branches in Taiwan alone, including a children’s bookstore and several music stores, with a retail presence across Japan, China and Hong Kong as well.

Those who have been to Taipei might be familiar with Eslite’s Dunnan outlet, which made headlines for being the world’s first 24-hour bookstore. Incidentally, this branch just had its final weekend of operations, officially closing its doors for good on 31 May.

More than just a mega-bookstore, Eslite gained a following as a retail haven selling everything from jewellery and accessories to perfume and gourmet foods. It also boasts one of the largest collections of English language publications in Taiwan.

Watch this space for more updates!

8 beautiful urban parks in Malaysia we can’t wait to revisit

May 30, 2020 by Going Places

While living in a city certainly has its perks, even the most hardened urban dwellers among us crave a little slice of nature from time to time. Thankfully, Malaysia boasts plenty of urban parks and gardens – either located within or just a short drive out of a city – that offer welcome respite from the hubbub of the concrete jungle. From a sprawling botanical garden in the heart of Kuala Lumpur to a rainforest gem in Sandakan, here are eight green lungs we’re excited to head to, now that trips to the parks are an option again.

1. Perdana Botanical Garden, Kuala Lumpur

Located smack–dab in the middle of the capital, this 91.6-hectare urban oasis has a plethora of different natural attractions to explore. The beautifully landscaped Hibiscus Garden – which includes fountains, pools and even a four-metre-high waterfall – is dedicated to showcasing several varieties of Malaysia’s national flower, the bunga raya (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis). The Sunken Garden, which features greenery clustered around a star-shaped fountain, is also a must-see. The lush gardens also contain gazebos, picturesque jogging paths and wide lawns. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of some otters swimming in the lake.

2. Mount Keriang Recreational Park, Alor Setar

Located around 10km away from Alor Setar, this hilly park is well worth the short drive out of the city centre. The star of the show here is Mount Keriang – a 250-million-year-old predominantly limestone rock formation that juts out at a height of 218 metres amid the surrounding flat rice paddy fields. Entrance to the park is free, and a slightly challenging, unpaved hike up to the peak of the mountain (which many say is shaped like an elephant) offers panoramic views of the surroundings. Another highlight here is caving – the park’s numerous karst caves are rich in unique geological formations, including calcite crystals.

3. Penang Botanic Gardens, Penang

Also known as the Waterfall Gardens – in reference to nearby waterfalls – the site was originally established by the British in 1884 as a research centre and has evolved over the years into what it is today. You’ll find plenty of different natural attractions here: those with a penchant for rare plant species can explore the Perdana Conservatory, Bromeliad and Begonia House and Herb Garden; those after a relaxing stroll can wander along one of the different walking tracks; and those after a more rugged experience can explore the Quarry Recreational Park extension.

4. Rainforest Discovery Centre, Sandakan

There’s no better place than the Rainforest Discovery Centre for a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with the birds of Borneo. This haven for birdwatchers is part of the 4,300-hectare Sepilok-Kabili Forest Reserve, which contains hundreds of bird species, including the Bornean bristlehead and the black-and-crimson pitta. Don’t fancy yourself much of a birder? You can drop by the Plant Discovery Garden to learn more about the different flora found at the park and check out 250 varieties of native orchids; traverse the 147m-long canopy walk and snap a few pictures for the ’gram; or take in the verdant rainforest foliage by hiking along one of the jungle trails.

5. World of Phalaenopsis, Genting Highlands

Genting Highlands’ World of Phalaenopsis is truly a sight for sore eyes. Though technically not an urban park, this idyllic orchid farm is Malaysia’s largest grower of phalaenopsis (moth orchids), a species native to the region. You’ll find an assortment of orchid varieties in full bloom daily, with guided tours that explain how to care for these flowers at home.

6. Taman Tugu, Kuala Lumpur

Taman Tugu is a lush 66-acre urban park in KL known for its forest trails and rainforest conservation efforts. Over 4000 trees have been planted in the park since it first opened in 2018, in addition to the existing flora that has been tagged for preservation. On your hikes, spot the 200 indigenous tree species that now inhabit the site, including the endangered Meranti and Keruing. The park has plans to unveil even more trails across its space.

7. Tropical Spice Garden, Penang

Tropical Spice Garden is home to over 500 species of plants from all around the world, including plants indigenous to Penang and Malaysia. A walk through the gardens is special any time of day, but extra magical at night, when nocturnal plants bloom and animals come out to play.

8. Sama Jaya Forest Park, Kuching

It’s hard to believe that Kuching’s Sama Jaya Forest Park – which spans roughly 38 hectares and is primarily made up of kerangas forest, also known as heath forest – was once a landfill and sewage dumping area. Today, it stands as a thriving urban jungle that provides a safe habitat for local flora and fauna and a recreational area for the city’s residents. Visitors can get their fitness fix on one of the different jogging tracks, take a walk around the reflexology path, drop by the serene Japanese garden and take a trip to the ethnobotanical garden, which has over 80 species of plants and herbs from around Sarawak. The park is also home to fruit bats, tarsiers, squirrels, nine frog species and 20 bird species.

Armchair Travel: How to take a virtual day trip around Kuala Lumpur from home

May 27, 2020 by Going Places

While much of the world may be on lockdown at the moment, there are still plenty of ways to go exploring without stepping outside your house. From trying out recipes from some of the city’s top chefs and sipping on locally roasted specialty coffee to touring interesting art galleries and participating in a virtual Ayurveda session, our Armchair Travel guide to Kuala Lumpur showcases the best of what the city has to offer – sans passport, visa and air ticket – until we all get moving again.

9am: Breakfast time!

Start your day on the right note with a delicious local breakfast. Try making your own nasi lemak (fragrant pandan-infused coconut rice with hard-boiled eggs, cucumber, fried peanuts and anchovies along with a spicy, piquant sambal sauce) at home by following this recipe from acclaimed chef Christina Arokiasamy’s cookbook The Malaysian Kitchen: 150 Recipes for Simple Home Cooking. Fun fact: Arokiasamy, who was born and raised in Kuala Lumpur, was Malaysia’s first-ever Food Ambassador to the United States.

11am: Explore the city’s best museums

Get a dose of culture by taking in virtual exhibitions at not one but two Kuala Lumpur museums. The  Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia is Southeast Asia’s largest repository of Islamic art, and most of its 12 expansive galleries and over 10,000 stunning artefacts are on view via virtual tours through their website. Additionally, contemporary art gallery Artemis Art has collaborated with Jakarta’s Art Serpong Gallery on “Monochrome” – a virtual exhibit featuring thought-provoking works by six artists hailing from both Malaysia and Indonesia.

1pm: Whip up a delicious fine-dining meal

For lunch, whip up a hearty meal following a recipe from chef, entrepreneur and Asian Food Network host Ili Sulaiman. After training in the kitchens of top fine-dining restaurants in London, Ili returned to Malaysia and currently resides in Kuala Lumpur. You can find step-by-step recipes on her website, as well as lively and easy-to-follow video tutorials on her YouTube channel. While there‘s a plethora of different cuisines and dishes to choose from, the steamed fish tiga rasa, chilli pan mee and mochi doughnuts look particularly appetising.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAWruZjn5eV/

3pm: Embark on a local tour, treat yourself to an Ayurveda session after

Kuala Lumpur-based travel experience company LokaLocal has put together a series of online tours so that people from all over the world can experience another country’s cities, culture and cuisine. The platform offers virtual experiences set in Kuala Lumpur that you can take part in from the comfort of your home. You can explore Kampung Baru – the city’s last surviving traditional Malay village – via a Zoom tour with a local that includes stops at Kampung Baru Mosque, Chow Kit Market and Tatt Khalsa Diwan Gurdwara Sikh Temple.

Also on offer are an Ayurveda session that involves a dosha quiz, assessment and analysis with an Ayurveda diet and lifestyle coach based in Kuala Lumpur and a class on how to make elegant pieces of jewellery with a team based at Kuala Lumpur’s Shangri-La Hotel.

5pm: Support a homegrown retail brand

Times are tough for retailers, but you can show your support – and pick up some new threads while you’re at it – by doing some online shopping with these Kuala Lumpur-based stores, all of which offer global shipping. Check out fashion label Twenty3 for womenswear by young Malaysian designers; apparel brand Tarik Jeans if you’re in the market for slick streetwear; and lifestyle shop Ninth Gallery for a wide selection of clothing, stationery and homewares. Accompany your browsing with a cup of home-brewed coffee using beans ordered online from a Kuala Lumpur-based roaster such as Collective or The Roast Things.

Tarik Jeans Volkswagen collab — Photo: Tarik Jeans

7pm: Recreate Dewakan’s award-winning recipes

For dinner, why not recreate recipes from Dewakan, the first Malaysian restaurant to earn a spot on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list last year? It’s just introduced its new “Cook Like Dewakan Food Kit”, a set of pre-cooked ingredients and easy-to-follow instruction cards that you can use to effortlessly replicate chef-crafted meals inspired by Dewakan’s own menu. Each box feeds up to four, which is perfect for an intimate dinner at home. Take your pick from a delicious Beef Short Rib or a rich Crab Curry, even a bottle of wine to go with.

“In times like these, cooking can become a form of escapism for people,” shares Darren Teoh, chef at Dewakan, who’s also revealed his go-to at-home Tempeh Sandwich recipe with us.

9pm: Wind down with a film

End your evening by taking in the city through a film. Those in the mood for a romantic comedy can opt for Crazy Rich Asians (2018) – while the film is set mostly in Singapore, the Carcosa Seri Negara, Astor Bar at The St Regis and BLVD House in Kuala Lumpur all functioned as filming locations. If you’re feeling like a heist flick, sit down to Entrapment (1999) starring Sean Connery and Catherine Zeta-Jones, where you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of the Petronas Twin Towers and Bukit Jalil LRT station. For something local, The Big Durian (2003) by Malaysian director Amir Muhammad – which was the first Malaysian film to be screened at the Sundance Film Festival – is both set and shot in Kuala Lumpur.

Astrid Leong at Astor Bar, St. Regis KL — Photo: Warner Bros

These Malaysian art galleries and museums have now gone digital

May 6, 2020 by Sarah Khan

The easing of the movement control order (MCO) is a welcome reprieve for many from all the weeks spent in lockdown, although, unfortunately, activities like museum and art gallery visits remain off the cards, at least in the physical sense. Thankfully, while cultural spaces across Malaysia have yet to reopen, you can still sink your teeth into a variety of virtual exhibitions and other online offerings. From an Islamic art tour to a wayang kulit (shadow puppetry) exhibit, here are five digital museum and art experiences in Malaysia you can now enjoy in the comfort of your home.

1. Artemis Art

This KL-based gallery has collaborated with Indonesia’s Art Serpong Gallery on a joint virtual exhibition called “Monochrome”, which features works from six Malaysian and Indonesian artists. As its name suggests, all the featured artworks are monochromatic. Take a virtual walkthrough of the exhibit here.

"I See I Hear I Feel" by Afdhal, Artemis Art — “I See I Hear I Feel” by Afdhal (Photo: Artemis Art)

2. Segaris Art Center

In April, KL-based gallery Segaris unveiled its first digital exhibition called “No(w) Showing!” featuring artwork from over 60 artists, with a portion of sales proceeds going to a Covid-19 relief fund. The gallery also has a pretty active Instagram page that’s worth a follow; you can get a glimpse of its many art pieces, catch short interview clips with its artists and access a QR code which you can use to view the e-gallery.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B_ypu-4p9y7/

3. G13 Gallery

With an exhibition entitled “Mending Fence: Tales From an Isolation”, G13 has brought together 30 artists from Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines and Thailand for a virtual showcase of artwork created by the artists during their time spent in lockdown. This isn’t the gallery’s first foray into the world of digital exhibitions – in 2018, it launched its virtual Viewing Room, and has since hosted several exhibitions in it. You can experience the exhibit for yourself via the Viewing Room on G13’s website.

4. Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia (IAMM)

The Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia (IAMM) in KL is home to 12 permanent galleries and carries over 10,000 artefacts from around the Islamic world. Most of these galleries, including one devoted entirely to Islamic architecture and another focused on artefacts from Southeast Asia, can be toured virtually on its website.

Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia's virtual museum tour — Photo: Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia’s Facebook

5. Department of Museums Malaysia

Virtual exhibits, wayang kulit and live Q&A sessions with curators – these are just some of the offerings the Department of Museums Malaysia (DMM) has rolled out. Past exhibitions, like “Shadow Puppets Exhibition: Symbolism Behind the Screen” – which details the history behind the wayang kulit artform – are now available on its website. The museum is also hosting regular “Tanya Kurator” sessions (“Ask a Curator”) on Facebook Live, where a panel of curators from institutions like Muzium Negara and Muzium Etnologi Dunia Melayu will take any questions viewers might have on exhibits.